The physical automation on display at IntraLogisteX 2026, which took place on 18-19 March, was increasingly framed through adaptability and integration rather than engineering spectacle alone.
KNAPP presented a portfolio spanning its AeroBot rack-climbing bot, Pick-it-Easy Robot fulfilment system, Evo Shuttle storage system, Open Shuttle autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and KiSoft software suite, with particular emphasis on the depth of its integrated automation and software stack.
Swisslog struck a similar note, spotlighting AutoStore High Throughput, AgileStore with Eurofork and enhancements across its SynQ software ecosystem, while also using its conference session to explore how newer AutoStore developments can unlock higher throughput, denser storage and longer-term performance. These were not narrow product pushes. They were propositions focused on how integrated automation environments are evolving at scale.
Several exhibitors also used the event to bring clearly identifiable new products or platforms to market. Patterson & Rothwell launched two new products at the show: the Recom Tote, a 100% recycled automated-warehousing container designed for ASRS, shuttle and mini-load environments, and the AutoFlow Crate, a fold-flat reusable crate that it says can save up to 87% of space when empty.
iMiLOG likewise introduced its new ERGOBOX tote for mini-load and shuttle systems, claiming the design can reduce transport, storage and carbon emissions by up to 70%.
Exotec’s presence was tied to the next-generation Skypod system, which adds a more compact robot, denser storage and integrated buffering, sequencing and reliable pick-and-pack functionality.
Sortation and materials handling were another visible strand of the show. Addverb showcased its Zippy 10 robotic sortation system and Cruiser 360 four-way pallet shuttle as part of its European expansion push, positioning both as responses to pressure around throughput, space use and operational resilience.
Axiom GB, meanwhile, demonstrated its UK-designed and UK-built ASS-075 sliding shoe sorter – the only such sorter on show at this year’s exhibition. The sorter can handle throughputs of up to 10,000 packages per hour and process boxes, bags and padded envelopes without modification.
That kind of specificity underlined how much of the event’s practical value still lies in seeing real materials handling equipment in operation rather than just discussing higher-level strategy.
Ocado Intelligent Automation took a similar approach, promoting its mobile robot system including Chuck and Porter AMRs and linking its show presence to a theatre discussion with DHL Supply Chain and TMX about what works in live multi-client environments.
Meanwhile, ek robotics built its participation around the Vario MOVE CB modular automated counterbalance forklift, pairing the hardware showcase with a more consultative ‘individual automation check’ proposition centred on cost, benefit and ROI. The pitch was not simply ‘come and see our robot’; it was ‘come and see where this fits in your operation’.
One of the busiest parts of the floor across both days was Boston Dynamics’ stand, marking the company’s first appearance at the show. Visitors consistently gathered to see Spot and Stretch, two of the company’s best-known robots. Spot is designed for dynamic sensing and industrial inspection, while Stretch is aimed at warehouse case handling and automated unloading.
Their presence reinforced one of the show’s wider themes: even the most eye-catching robotics stories are now being framed around practical industrial use cases rather than novelty alone.
IntraLogisteX 2026 takes place on 17-18 March 2027 at the NEC Birmingham. For exhibitor information and visitor registration, visit the official event website at www.intralogistex.co.uk
